Which Cryptocurrencies Are Best to Mine with Graphics Cards: The Complete Guide 2024-2026

Choosing what to mine with graphics cards requires serious analysis of the current cryptocurrency market and your equipment’s capabilities. Unlike ASIC mining, GPU mining remains accessible to everyday enthusiasts seeking passive income. If you own sufficiently powerful graphics cards and are willing to invest in electricity costs, we have prepared a comprehensive overview of the most profitable coins for mining on GPUs.

Why the choice of graphics cards for mining remains relevant

GPU mining differs from traditional ASIC mining in greater flexibility and accessibility. Nvidia and AMD graphics cards allow switching between different cryptocurrencies depending on market conditions and network difficulty. While specialized equipment requires huge capital investments and can quickly become outdated, graphics cards retain value due to their versatility.

Cryptocurrency mining on GPUs is not just a financial strategy but also a way to support blockchain decentralization. Every miner, including those working with GPUs, strengthens network security and transaction transparency.

Key factors to consider when choosing GPU mining

Before deciding what to mine on your graphics cards, evaluate several critical parameters that determine your profitability.

Compatibility with graphics cards and hashing algorithms

Not all cryptocurrencies are suitable for GPU mining. Look for coins that use algorithms optimized for graphics processors, such as KawPow, Scrypt, Ethash, or RandomX. Ensure your Nvidia RTX series or AMD Radeon graphics card is compatible with the chosen coin.

Network difficulty and block rewards

High mining difficulty means more computational power is needed to confirm a block. Analyze the current difficulty of the selected cryptocurrency and the reward for successfully mined blocks. The optimal coin offers a high reward with relatively low difficulty.

Your equipment’s power consumption

GPUs consume a significant amount of electricity, especially during long mining sessions. Calculate local electricity rates and determine whether mining remains economically viable. The simple formula: if electricity costs exceed potential earnings, the project is unprofitable.

Cryptocurrency volatility and long-term prospects

Digital asset prices are highly unpredictable. Before mining a specific coin, study its market history, community support, and project development. Coins with a strong team and active community often show more stable dynamics.

Best cryptocurrencies for mining on graphics cards

Dogecoin (DOGE) — the most accessible choice

Although Dogecoin was initially created as an internet meme, it has gained serious recognition in the crypto ecosystem. The coin uses the Scrypt algorithm, making it ideal for GPU mining. You’ll need a GPU rig with Nvidia GeForce RTX series or AMD Radeon cards, plus software like CGMiner or EasyMiner configured for DOGE mining.

Dogecoin profitability depends on the coin’s price and your regional electricity costs. In areas with cheap electricity, DOGE remains one of the most profitable options for GPU mining.

Ravencoin (RVN) — ASIC-resistant coin

Designed specifically for asset transfer and issuance on its blockchain, Ravencoin is clearly oriented toward GPU mining. The RVN network uses the KawPow algorithm, which effectively resists specialized hardware. This means GPU owners have a fair chance to compete with other miners.

Powerful graphics cards like Nvidia GTX 1080 Ti and newer RTX models are suitable for Ravencoin mining. Use specialized software such as KawPow Miner, T-Rex Miner, or HiveOS for remote farm management. Although block rewards may be lower than some alternatives, the low network difficulty makes RVN attractive.

Ethereum Classic (ETC) — a classic choice for GPU

Ethereum Classic is the original Ethereum blockchain that adheres to decentralization principles. ETC can be mined with GPUs using the Ethash algorithm. Although ETC’s difficulty is higher than DOGE or RVN, the block reward often compensates for this difference.

Configure your graphics cards for ETC mining using software like Claymore’s Dual Miner, PhoenixMiner, or GMiner. Each is optimized for Nvidia and AMD GPUs and provides stable hash rates.

Zcash (ZEC) — privacy-focused mining

Recognized for its zero-knowledge proof technology, Zcash offers fully encrypted transactions. ZEC can be mined on both ASICs and GPUs, although ASIC rigs often dominate the network. Nevertheless, GPUs remain a viable option, especially if you have powerful Nvidia RTX cards.

Use software like EWBF’s Cuda Miner optimized for Nvidia graphics. Analyze profitability based on current ZEC prices and network difficulty.

Litecoin (LTC) — silver among mined coins

Known as the “silver” to Bitcoin’s “gold,” Litecoin offers faster transaction confirmation and an alternative hashing algorithm. However, LTC is primarily mined on ASIC hardware, making it less attractive for GPU miners. Still, in some regional networks or pools, LTC can be profitable if you use Scrypt-compatible GPUs.

Bitcoin (BTC) — tradition, but not for graphics cards

Bitcoin remains the king of cryptocurrencies, but its mining has fully transitioned to ASIC operators. GPU mining for BTC is not cost-effective, as the computational power of graphics cards is incomparable to specialized hardware. If you’re interested in GPU mining, skip Bitcoin and focus on GPU-friendly altcoins.

Step-by-step plan to start GPU mining

If you’ve decided to mine with graphics cards, follow this plan to get started:

Step 1: Choose cryptocurrency and hardware

Decide which coin you want to mine based on your existing GPU setup. If you have Nvidia cards, ensure compatibility with the chosen algorithm. The same applies to AMD Radeon. Invest in additional graphics cards only if calculations show the investment will pay off within 12-18 months.

Step 2: Acquire a reliable crypto wallet

You need a secure wallet to store your mined coins. Make sure the wallet supports your chosen cryptocurrency and has a good reputation. For most GPU-friendly coins, official project wallets or popular multi-currency solutions are suitable.

Step 3: Install mining software

Download specialized mining software for GPUs. Popular options include CGMiner, BFGMiner (for broad support), PhoenixMiner (for ETC), T-Rex Miner (for KawPow algorithms). Study each application’s documentation to properly configure optimization parameters.

Step 4: Join a mining pool

Solo mining is extremely difficult and inefficient. Join a reliable mining pool to combine your resources with others and receive regular rewards. Well-known pools for GPU mining offer competitive fees and stable support.

Step 5: Configure and monitor

Connect your mining software to your wallet and pool. Start mining and monitor GPU temperatures, hash rate, and power consumption. Ensure your hardware operates under optimal conditions to prevent damage and maximize profit.

Risks and challenges of GPU mining

GPU mining involves numerous risks that must be considered before starting.

Financial and technical risks

High electricity bills — GPU power consumption can quickly turn profit into loss, especially in regions with expensive electricity. Rapid hardware obsolescence — continuous load shortens GPU lifespan. High competition — large commercial farms can outpace individual miners, reducing your share of rewards.

Market and geopolitical factors

Price volatility — the coin’s value can drop below production costs. Regulatory changes — e.g., China’s full mining ban in September 2021 caused many operators to lose income. Network difficulty adjustments — as more miners join, difficulty increases, lowering individual earnings.

Security and scams

Security risks — mining setups and wallets are vulnerable to hacking. Cloud Ponzi schemes — many cloud mining services use new investors’ funds to pay old ones, leading to inevitable collapse. Fake operations — scammers create attractive sites promising high returns but disappear with your money.

Environmental concerns

GPU mining consumes significant electricity, impacting the environment. Consider using renewable energy sources or eco-friendly alternatives if environmental impact concerns you.

Tips for optimizing your GPU farm

To maximize profitability, consider these recommendations:

• Overclock your GPUs — increase memory clock speeds while reducing power voltage for better efficiency.
• Manage temperatures — ensure proper cooling and monitor temperatures in real-time.
• Switch between coins — change cryptocurrencies based on current profitability and network difficulty.
• Choose reliable pools — select pools with low fees, good reputation, and stability.
• Invest in quality software — optimized mining programs can increase hash rate by 10-15%.

Final thoughts

Deciding what to mine on graphics cards requires a combination of market analysis, technical knowledge, and caution. The future of GPU mining remains unpredictable, but opportunities still exist for those willing to plan carefully and invest wisely.

With proper diligence, regular market monitoring, and continuous hardware improvement, GPU mining can become a profitable enterprise that contributes to the broader development of the cryptocurrency ecosystem. Remember: success in mining depends less on luck and more on being informed and adaptable to changing market conditions.